Isaiah does a beautiful job here of covering a lot of ground. For us living on this side of history, we can perfectly picture who Isaiah is speaking to. Isaiah would not have met the man Jesus but would be very faithful to God the Father.
The message God gave Isaiah may seem like it’s all over the place, but the gems are plentiful and can stand alone as beautiful prophecies that keep on giving. Let’s unpack these verses from the Advent perspective of preparing for Jesus’ return. What are your favorite takeaways?
I loved Isaiah’s use of these word pictures, “burst from the heavens,” and “nations tremble.” If only Jesus would do that tomorrow, the people of the world would not all be ready. Sadly, some people who think they are ready still have a way to go. Are all works in progress, aren’t we?
I suppose that’s why seeing God as the Potter is another one of my favorite things about this text. We are all just a lump of clay needing to be beautified by the Master’s touch. Without Jesus shining inside us, we are dark and lost creatures. If you’ve been without Jesus before, you know the difference he makes in your life.
We can be so thankful for the Potter. He knows best. It was good that Isaiah called out our human weaknesses. We are “infected and impure” because of our sin. That doesn’t sound pleasant, and yet we tell ourselves that our sins aren’t that bad. The Potter still loves us.
Does God remember our sins? I sure hope not. I agree with Isaiah. But Isaiah didn’t know of the redemptive power of God’s Son. We have met Jesus. Romans 10:9 says, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
As you prepare your heart during Advent to receive the Christ child and be ready to see the risen Christ return, these verses of prophecy are a fantastic place to spend some time. Reread this text and see if your heart is stirred in the same place or a brand-new second place.
Let’s pray. Father God, thank you for the promise that you will return one day. Thank you for inviting me into a relationship with you. I am so grateful I can experience your grace, kindness, and mercy. Please strengthen my faith and trust in you. Remind me of the hope I have as I wait for your return. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
